Nancy Pelosi Calls Israeli PM Netanyahu an 'Obstacle' to Two-State Solution

Former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has sharply criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calling him an "obstacle" to achieving a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians. Pelosi's remarks reflect growing dissatisfaction among some Democrats with the current Israeli government's policies and actions in the ongoing conflict.

In an interview, Pelosi stated that Netanyahu "should resign" from his position, citing his "terrible" response to the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack on Israel that killed over 1,100 people. She questioned whether Netanyahu is "afraid of peace, incapable of peace, or just doesn't want peace." "What could be worse than what he has done in response," Pelosi said, referring to Israel's military offensive in Gaza.

Pelosi's criticism comes a month after Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer called for Netanyahu's ouster and a new Israeli government. President Joe Biden has also reportedly had a falling out with the Israeli leader, with reports suggesting he has privately referred to Netanyahu as an "asshole" and "a pain in my ass." Despite the criticism from top Democrats, Congress recently approved a $26 billion military aid package for Israel.

Why this matters: Pelosi's comments signify a critical view among international observers regarding Israel's aggressive policies in Gaza, which could lead to increased diplomatic isolation or calls for more drastic changes in how Israel approaches its security and interactions with Palestinians. The change in tone from Washington, Israel's key ally, raises questions about the future of US-Israel relations and the broader international effort to secure peace in the Middle East.

While acknowledging Israel's right to self-defense against Hamas, Pelosi argued that Netanyahu's leadership and the government's response in Gaza have gone too far. She condemned the Israeli bombing campaign, which has killed over 34,000 Palestinians, with two-thirds being children and women. Pelosi also criticized the killing of six aid workers from the World Central Kitchen, which the IDF claimed was a "tragic mistake."

Netanyahu has rejected the calls for his resignation, stating that it is inappropriate for foreign leaders to try to replace the elected leadership in a "sister democracy." He faces growing pressure both at home and abroad over the relentless aerial bombardment of Gaza and the impact on Palestinian civilians. The conflict has resulted in severe shortages of necessities in Gaza, while the families of hostages held by Hamas have criticized Netanyahu's government for failing to secure their release.

Key Takeaways

• Pelosi criticizes Netanyahu as "obstacle" to 2-state solution, calls for his resignation.
• Pelosi condemns Israel's military offensive in Gaza, citing high civilian casualties.
• Schumer, Biden also expressed dissatisfaction with Netanyahu's leadership and policies.
• Congress approves $26B military aid package for Israel despite criticism from Democrats.
• Conflict raises questions about future of US-Israel relations and Middle East peace efforts.